Head Priest of Episcopal Church in Pittsburgh Accused of Walmart Theft

The Very Rev. Aidan Smith faces charges of stealing over $1,000 in baseball cards

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The head priest and dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Pittsburgh, The Very Rev. Aidan Smith, has been accused of stealing more than $1,000 worth of baseball cards from a local Walmart. Smith was arrested on February 27th after Walmart security reported seeing him conceal the cards under his clothing and in a cardboard box before leaving the store. Police say Walmart security footage shows Smith taking baseball cards on four previous occasions as well.

Why it matters

The alleged theft by a high-ranking member of the clergy has raised concerns within the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh, which has launched an investigation into the matter and the process for handling clergy misconduct. The incident has also drawn attention to the issue of theft and shoplifting, which can have significant financial impacts on retailers like Walmart.

The details

According to court records, Smith was charged with receiving stolen property and retail theft after his arrest on February 27th. Walmart security reported that the total value of the stolen baseball cards was $1,099.99. In a message to the cathedral's members, the Right Rev. Ketlen Solak, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh, said Smith had been on administrative leave since late January, though the reason was not explained.

  • On February 27, 2026, Smith was arrested by police after leaving the Walmart in Economy Borough, just outside Pittsburgh.
  • In the days prior to his arrest, Walmart security video shows Smith taking baseball cards from the store on four previous occasions.

The players

The Very Rev. Aidan Smith

The head priest and dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Pittsburgh, who has been accused of stealing over $1,000 worth of baseball cards from a local Walmart.

Right Rev. Ketlen Solak

The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh, who has launched an investigation into the situation and the process for handling clergy misconduct.

Walmart

The retailer where the alleged thefts took place, with security video footage showing the incidents.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I have spoken with Aidan and assured him of our prayers for him in this difficult time. Please pray for Aidan, for Melanie and their children, for the entire cathedral congregation as we grieve this news, and for everyone involved in this hard situation.”

— Right Rev. Ketlen Solak, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh (ksgf.com)

What’s next

The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh will continue its investigation into the situation and follow the church canons for handling clergy misconduct. The judge in the case will also decide on whether to allow Smith to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident has raised serious concerns about the actions of a high-ranking member of the clergy and the potential impact on the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh and its congregation. It also highlights the broader issue of theft and shoplifting, which can have significant financial consequences for retailers like Walmart.